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Mission Statement
The mission of James S. Rickards High School is to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to succeed at the local, state, national, and international levels. Our students will emerge as responsible, self-supporting, and productive members of society, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
Vision Statement
At James S. Rickards High School, our vision is to provide students with a caring and supportive learning environment that empowers them to reach their fullest potential through high-quality programs, instruction, and experiences.
We invite you to partner with us in achieving our mission and bringing it to life. Please consider volunteering your time or joining our School Advisory Council. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and strengthen our surrounding community.
Grades: 9th - 12th
Enrollment: 1668
Principal: Mr. Douglas Cook
Assistant Principals: Dr. D. Barnes, Dr. R. Flanagan, Mr. C. Cowart, & Mr. S. Striplin
School Hours: 7:25 AM – 1:55 PM
Principal’s Message
Principal Douglas Cook brings over 20 years of educational leadership and a passion for building futures filled with opportunity and success for all students. Mr. Cook believes that students thrive in safe, supportive environments where families and the community play a vital role.
Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Community Members,
As we reach the end of another school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've shared together.
To Our Students: You have shown resilience, curiosity, and kindness every single day. Whether you've faced challenges, celebrated victories, or simply shown up ready to learn, you have made our school a better place. Thank you for your effort and your heart.
To Our Staff: Your dedication, creativity, and compassion inspire me daily. You go above and beyond for our students, and your commitment to excellence does not go unnoticed. Thank you for all you do.
To Our Families: Your partnership and support are the foundation of our success. Thank you for entrusting us with your children and for being active members of our school community.
As we enjoy well-deserved rest this summer, I encourage everyone to recharge, spend time with loved ones, and return in the fall ready for new adventures and growth.
Here's to celebrating what we've accomplished together—and to the bright futures ahead.
Wishing you a wonderful summer!
Warm regards,
Mr. Douglas Cook
Phone: 850-414-5500 | Email
Administrative Updates
Dr. Barnes, Assistant Principal of Curriculum
Students, Parents, and Guardians,
Students, thank you for your hard work and positive contributions to our school community. Enjoy a well-deserved break—read, explore, and recharge! Parents, thank you for your unwavering support and partnership. Your involvement makes a real difference in our students' success.
Here's to a restful, rejuvenating summer. We look forward to seeing everyone again in August, ready for new challenges and exciting learning opportunities.
Have a wonderful summer!
Frequently Asked Questions
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We offer a range of programs, including special education, English language development, gifted education, and counseling services to support diverse student needs.
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Safety is our top priority. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills, and on-site staff trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.
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Our elementary school day typically begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m., with after-school programs available for families needing extended care.
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Registration is straightforward and can be done online or in person at the school office. Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
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We welcome family involvement! Parents can volunteer in classrooms, join the PTA, participate in family nights, or attend school events. Your involvement strengthens our school community and supports your child's learning experience.
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Technology is integrated to enhance learning, with resources such as interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software that support students' digital literacy and engagement.
